Nigeria’s Super Eagles produced a commanding display to defeat Algeria 2–0 in a thrilling quarter‑final encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Saturday evening in Marrakech, booking a mouth‑watering semi‑final clash against tournament hosts Morocco.
The Super Eagles combined clinical finishing with defensive solidity, leaving Algeria’s Desert Warriors with no answers throughout the contest.
Both sides battled for control in a tightly contested first half, with Nigeria creating the more dangerous chances. However, it was after the break that the Super Eagles truly asserted their dominance. Just two minutes into the second half, star striker Victor Osimhen opened the scoring in the 47th minute, powering home a close‑range header from a Bruno Onyemaechi’s delivery.
Nigeria maintained the pressure and doubled their advantage ten minutes later. In the 57th minute, Akor Adams capitalised on a swift counter‑attack, calmly firing a left‑footed effort into the net after a well‑timed assist from Osimhen.
Algeria attempted to mount a response with several substitutions, including the introduction of Baghdad Bounedjah and Anis Hadj Moussa, but found it difficult to break through Nigeria’s well‑organised defence. Efforts from Ramy Bensebaini and Bounedjah were either off target or repelled by a disciplined backline and an alert Stanley Nwabali in goal.
The Super Eagles expertly managed the closing stages, making tactical substitutions to preserve their lead.
Despite late pressure from Algeria, Nigeria held firm to seal a deserved victory and advance confidently into the AFCON semi‑finals.
